Posted on April 21, 2023.

Small spaces can be a challenge to decorate, but with the right design strategies, you can make the most of your space and create a stylish and functional living area. At Oregon Historic, we specialize in creating unique and personalized interior designs for all types of spaces, including small apartments, tiny homes, and cozy cottages. In this blog post, we'll share some of our top tips and tricks for maximizing small spaces.

Use Multi-Functional Furniture

One of the best ways to maximize a small space is to use multi-functional furniture. This can include pieces like sleeper sofas, storage ottomans, and convertible coffee tables. These types of furniture are designed to serve multiple purposes, making them a great choice for small spaces where every inch of space counts.

Create Vertical Storage Solutions

In a small space, it's important to make the most of vertical space. This can include using tall bookcases or shelving units, installing floating shelves, or adding hanging storage solutions like hooks or pegboards. By utilizing the walls in your space, you can free up valuable floor space and keep your belongings organized.

Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space

Mirrors are a great tool for creating the illusion of space in a small room. By reflecting light and creating depth, mirrors can make a small space feel larger and more open. Consider adding a large mirror to a wall or using a mirrored backsplash in your kitchen to help create the illusion of more space.

Choose Light Colors and Patterns

When it comes to small spaces, light colors and patterns are your friends. Light colors like white, beige, and pastels can help make a space feel brighter and more open. Similarly, using small-scale patterns can add interest to a space without overwhelming it. Avoid using large or busy patterns, which can make a small space feel even smaller.

Use Lighting to Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Lighting can play a big role in creating a cozy atmosphere in a small space. Consider using warm, soft lighting to create a welcoming ambiance. Table lamps, floor lamps, and string lights can all help create a cozy atmosphere in a small space.

Don't Overcrowd the Space

In a small space, it's important to resist the urge to overcrowd the space with too much furniture or decor. Instead, choose a few statement pieces that will make an impact and leave plenty of open space. This will help your small space feel more airy and open, rather than cramped and cluttered.

Invest in Custom Storage Solutions

If you're struggling to find storage solutions that work for your small space, consider investing in custom storage solutions. At Oregon Historic, we specialize in creating personalized and unique storage solutions that are tailored to your specific needs and the dimensions of your space. From built-in bookcases to custom closets, we can help you make the most of your small space.

Use Clear Furniture

In small spaces, using furniture that has a transparent or translucent quality can help create the illusion of more space. Acrylic chairs, glass coffee tables, and lucite bookshelves are great options. Not only do they not take up much visual space, but they also allow light to pass through, which can help brighten up a small room. Additionally, using clear furniture can make a space feel more modern and contemporary, adding a fresh and airy feel to any room.

Keep Things Organized

Keeping your small space organized is key to making the most of your square footage. Use drawer dividers, hanging organizers, and baskets to keep your belongings in order and make the most of your storage space. One great way to do this is to go vertical with your organization. Use wall-mounted storage solutions like pegboards, floating shelves, and hanging organizers to keep items off the floor and within easy reach. Utilize under-bed storage containers or furniture with built-in storage to keep things tidy and out of sight.

Create Zones

Even in a small space, it's important to create distinct zones for different activities. Consider using a room divider or area rug to create a designated workspace or seating area. Adding a decorative screen or bookshelf can also create a sense of separation and privacy. If you have a studio apartment or open-concept living space, creating zones can help define the different areas of your home and give the illusion of more space.

Use Wall Space

In a small space, wall space is prime real estate. Consider using a pegboard to organize kitchen utensils, installing a wall-mounted desk, or using a floating shelf to display decorative items. These solutions not only help maximize your storage space, but they also add interest and personality to your walls. Additionally, using wall-mounted solutions can help keep your floors clear, creating the illusion of more space.

Add Plants

Adding plants to your small space can help bring life and energy to the room. Consider adding a hanging planter, a small potted plant on a windowsill, or a vertical garden. Not only do plants add natural beauty to your space, but they can also help purify the air and create a calming atmosphere. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or spider plants if you're not confident in your green thumb.

Choose Multi-Purpose Decor

Just like multi-functional furniture, choosing decor items that serve more than one purpose can help maximize your space. A decorative storage box or a lamp with built-in storage can add both style and function to your small space. Consider a storage ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, or a decorative ladder that can be used to hang towels in the bathroom.

Embrace Minimalism

In a small space, less is often more. Embrace a minimalist design style by keeping decor simple and focusing on functional pieces. Choose a few statement pieces and let them shine, rather than cluttering your space with lots of small decor items. Keep your color palette neutral and choose furniture with clean lines to create a cohesive and calming environment.

Consider a Murphy Bed

If your small space doubles as a guest room, a Murphy bed can be a great option. These beds fold up into the wall when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space during the day. Additionally, they come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can choose the one that works best for your space. A Murphy bed can help you make the most of your small space while still providing a comfortable place for guests to sleep.

In conclusion, small spaces can present a unique set of challenges when it comes to interior design, but with the right strategies, you can create a stylish and functional living area. At Oregon Historic, we specialize in creating personalized and unique interior designs for small spaces, and we're here to help you make the most of your space. If you're interested in learning more about our interior design services, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at (541) 313-6646 or [email protected]. We'd be happy to discuss your needs and help you create the home of your dreams.